Grilling Academy

Grilling Chicken: Quick, high-heat method for juicy results.

Published

2 weeks ago

March 14, 2025

Grilled chicken legs with a thermometer over an open flame

✅ Perfectly grilled chicken legs with crispy skin and a thermometer checking for doneness.

🔥 Why Grilling Chicken at the Right Temperature Matters

Grilling is a fast, high-heat cooking method that gives chicken a delicious sear and smoky flavor. However, improper temperature control can result in dry, overcooked meat or undercooked, unsafe chicken.

This guide covers:
✅ Best grill temperatures for different chicken cuts
✅ Approximate cooking times for each piece
✅ Pro tips for juicy, flavorful grilled chicken

🔥 Best Grill Temperatures for Chicken

🐔 Chicken Cut	🔥 Grill Temp	⏳ Time	🌡️ Safe Internal Temp
Chicken Breast	400°F	6-8 min/side	160-165°F
Bone-in Thighs	375°F	10-12 min/side	175-185°F
Boneless Thighs	400°F	6-7 min/side	170°F
Chicken Wings	425°F	20-25 min (flip every 5 min)	175-185°F
Drumsticks	400°F	25-30 min (turn often)	175-185°F
Whole Chicken	375°F	1 hr 15 min – 1 hr 30 min	165°F (breast), 175°F (thighs)

📌 Pro Tip: Use two heat zones—high heat for searing, then move to indirect heat to finish cooking.

🔥 Step-by-Step Guide to Grilling Chicken

1️⃣ Preheat the Grill:

Set the grill to 375-425°F depending on the cut.
Let it heat for 10-15 minutes before adding chicken.

2️⃣ Prep the Chicken:

Pat chicken dry for better searing.
Season well with salt, pepper, and your favorite BBQ rub.
For boneless breasts, pound them to an even thickness.

3️⃣ Grill with Proper Timing:

Place chicken on direct heat for a sear.
Flip only once to keep juices locked in.
Move to indirect heat if cooking larger pieces like thighs or whole chickens.

4️⃣ Check Internal Temperature:

Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.
Remove chicken breasts at 160°F (carryover heat will bring them to 165°F).

5️⃣ Rest & Serve:

Let grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

🔥 Common Grilling Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Flipping too often: Leads to moisture loss.
❌ Cooking on too low heat: Won’t develop grill marks.
❌ Skipping the thermometer: Guessing = dry or undercooked chicken.